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A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE RIDE QUALITY OF TRACKED RAM AIR CUSHION VEHICLE (TRACV) SUSPENSION ALTERNATIVES

A linearized model of the pitch-heave dynamics of a Tracked Ram Air Cushion Vehicle is presented. This model is based on aerodynamic theory which has been verified by wind tunnel and towed model experiments. The vehicle is assumed to be equipped with two controls which can be configured to provide various suspension system characteristics. The ride qualities and dynamic motions of the rigid vehicle moving over a guideway described by roughness characteristics typical of highways is examined in terms of the rms values of the vertical acceleration in the foremost and rearmost seats in the passenger cabin and the gap variations at the leading and trailing edges of the vehicle. The improvement in ride qualities and dynamic behavior which can be obtained by passive and active suspension systems is examined and discussed. Optimal regulator theory is employed to design the active suspension system. The predicted rms values of the vertical acceleration in the one-third octave frequency bands are compared with the vertical ISO Specification. It is shown that marked improvements in the ride qualities can be obtained with either the passive or active suspension systems.

Supplemental Notes:

See also report dated September 77, AD-A046565.

Corporate Authors:

Princeton University

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringPrinceton, NJ
United States
08544